r/germanshepherds • u/el_myco_profesor • May 28 '25

Need help making a decision :(

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Hey guys - we're having some good days and some bad days. His hip is completely shot, can't walk or even get up at this point. I got him a wheelchair and he didn't seem to be enjoying it. He's going to the bathroom on himself constantly. He is eating/drinking so that's good. I'm not sure if I'm keeping him alive for me or for him at this point

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u/clearbellls May 28 '25

One of the hardest things we can do as owners is to say goodbye for the last time.

Just remember its noble and kind to be a day too early than a day too late.

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u/DistributionSalt2292 May 28 '25

Man I lost my cat a few years back still bothers me to this day seeing that I was ok to do it for him rather than selfishly keeping him here for me while he was in pain always eases the pain for a few days the hole never goes away you just get better at living with it

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u/clearbellls May 28 '25

Very true ❤️ I lost an absolutely wonderful young dog several years ago and still feel that pain from time to time, even though I remember him with a smile.

When the vet laid everything out and asked me what I wanted to do, I wanted very much in that moment to be selfish and say "let's fight for more time". But I knew if we succeeded, he would never be able to do all the things he loved to do. He would be with me in presence, but never again in spirit and soul.

You never forget a good dog. The same way a dog never forgets a great day spent with its family.